Helema from Manihiki

Today she will pick up the key to her little Olympic home by the sea.

Then, 11 days later, she will move up to the capital to carry the flag of the Cook Islands, at the head of an 11-strong team, including three officials, into the world spotlight of the brand new Olympic Stadium in London.

She is Helema Williams, 20-years-old with five elder brothers, a younger sister, and two immensely proud parents. She speaks quietly, even nervously, but there ...